Ukraine opposes easing of Russia sanctions in exchange for grain deal, Romania upgrades Constanta port

Ukraine opposes sanctions relief in exchange for grain deal with Russia. (Source: Adobe Stock)

On the same day, the Romanian government is expected to approve a plan to upgrade road infrastructure at the Black Sea port of Constanta - part of a larger investment in the port that could allow more Ukrainian grain to be shipped there.

Constanta is Ukraine's largest alternative export route, with grain arriving by road, rail or barge on the Danube.

Kiev is one of the world's largest grain exporters and Romanian government officials have said they aim to double the monthly capacity of Ukrainian grain shipments to the port of Constanta to 4 million tonnes in the coming period.

The Romanian government has upgraded dozens of railway lines connecting Constanta with Ukraine, while ongoing works on the Danube will allow more barges to pass, including hiring more pilots and conducting night navigation.

At the port of Constanta, the Romanian Ministry of Transport will use European Union (EU) funds to repair or reinforce existing infrastructure, renew roads, intersections and roundabouts, and implement a digital traffic management system.

According to the Association of Ukrainian Grain Enterprises, Ukraine's exports through the port of Constanta could increase to 35 million tons per season if there are clear changes in the port's operations.